He also addressed the ongoing electricity issues in the country, pointing out that all power plants were acquired during the CTP’s administration.
Significant Developments in the Cyprus Issue
Erhürman highlighted that the Cyprus issue is at a critical juncture, noting increased activity following the appointment of a new envoy, Maria Angel Holguin Cuellar. He mentioned carefully analysing the statements made on July 20 by Turkish President Recep Tayyip Erdoğan, and observed that the situation is becoming increasingly dynamic.
Erdoğan’s Speech and Turkey-Greece Relations
Erhürman emphasised that Erdoğan’s speech on July 20 was well-prepared and carried substantial messages. He pointed out that Anadolu Agency covered the speech with the headline, “We are ready for negotiations, talks, and ensuring permanent peace and solution in Cyprus”, calling it a powerful statement. Erhürman also noted the serious communication network between Erdoğan and Greek Prime Minister Kyriakos Mitsotakis, suggesting that strengthened dialogue between Turkey and Greece could positively impact the Cyprus issue.
New Proposals and Backdoor Diplomacy
The CTP leader revealed that Erdoğan included a new proposal in his speech: meetings between the presidents and prime ministers of the two guarantor countries with local leaders. He stressed that it is essential to consider recent statements on natural gas and energy, not just the speeches from July 20.
Erhürman recalled the remarks of Greek Cypriot Leader Nikos Christodoulides, “Let’s continue the negotiations from where we left off”, but noted that this alone is insufficient. He also referenced statements from former AKEL General Secretary and DISY President, highlighting the need for difficult decisions. He observed an intense movement towards September and warned against making definitive predictions about the outcome.
Historical Context and Current Dynamics
Erhürman pointed out that current developments reflect positions outlined in a 1998 document submitted to the UN by the first President of the TRNC Rauf Raif Denktaş, countering claims that federative negotiations have been ongoing for 50 years. He criticised the “two separate states” model for lacking clear plans on property, guarantees, and natural resources.
Addressing Electricity Issues
On the domestic front, Erhürman addressed the electricity outages, reminding that significant investments were made during CTP’s tenure, leading to a period without major outages. He criticised the current administration for failing to invest in infrastructure despite the growing population and increased electricity demand since 2021. “We are the party that acquired all the power plants”, he stated, distancing the CTP from the current issues and emphasising transparency in the party’s achievements.
